Conifers of the Temperate Rain Forests of Alaska

Southeastern and southcentral Alaska are known for its majestic mountains, glaciers, and fjords. Equally impressive are the temperate rain forests cloaking the vast coastlines. These lush forests are dominated by coniferous trees often draped with lichens and mosses.

Western hemlock is the most common tree followed by Sitka spruce. Other conifers include Western redcedar, Alaska yellow-cedar, mountain hemlock, and the relatively uncommon Pacific silver fir and Pacific yew.

Due to the copious amount of precipitation, forested wetlands are common. Predominant wetland trees are shore pine, Alaska yellow-cedar, and subalpine fir. Near tree line confiers become gnarled and prostrate as a result of the harsh weather condition. These stunted forests are referred to as "krummholz" by ecologists." less ↑